Toyota Material Handling North America plans to establish a $2 million research and development facility for advanced energy storage solutions in Henrietta. The lift truck manufacturer will create 40 new jobs.
Located at 1565 Jefferson Road, the facility will develop energy storage solutions and prototypes, and host a testing center.
The site is expected to spark collaboration with area energy storage sources to support its own and Toyota Industries’ advanced energy technology efforts, including lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. Activities are expected to begin immediately and the testing center will be operational in the spring.
“Toyota Material Handling North America’s continued commitment to driving alternative energy applications for the lift truck industry is truly commendable, and we are thrilled that they are moving full speed ahead with all the opportunities that the state and Finger Lakes region have to offer,” says Hope Knight, president, CEO and commissioner of Empire State Development.
TMHNA, which is two companies, Toyota Material Handling and the Raymond Corp., will receive up to $1.5 million in tax credits through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit program. The County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and Greater Rochester Enterprise also provided support.
GRE helped connect TMHNA with economic development partners and the battery and energy storage expertise and integrated ecosystem in the region to support the company’s growth plans, says Matt Hurlbutt, president and CEO of GRE.
TMHNA had considered locating its R&D facility elsewhere, but selected the Finger Lakes region because of its reputation for available top talent and its innovative technology base, state officials say.
“We are honored to contribute to the growth of this community while advancing innovation in sustainable technology, says Brett Wood, president and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America and senior executive officer at Toyota Industries. “This initiative signifies our commitment to excellence and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship. Through this venture, we aim to create new jobs, empowering individuals and driving progress toward a better and brighter future,”
Stephen Schultz, town supervisor, points to Henrietta’s efforts in sustainable energy, which includes a current project of upgrading streetlights to energy-efficient lamps.
“Henrietta also is home to (Rochester Institute of Technology) and its Battery Prototyping Center, which also works in close collaboration with Empire State Development,” he notes. “Between Toyota, RIT, and energy research companies, Henrietta and Monroe County are becoming hubs for leading the way to a cleaner energy future.”
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor. The Beacon welcomes comments and letters from readers who adhere to our comment policy including use of their full, real name. Submissions to the Letters page should be sent to [email protected].